RESIDENTS and businesses in uMhlanga and Durban North can breathe a sigh of relief after news that the poor water supply, which had affected thousands of residents for the past eight days, is improving.
According to the City, suspected vandalism and sabotage were behind the widespread water interruption that affected four wards in north Durban.
In its latest update, the eThekwini Municipality said reservoir levels are improving as the inflow supply and pressure on the Northern Aqueduct are sustaining.
“Most households are now receiving water, although the system is still building up sufficient water levels. Some reservoirs are fast-moving as they supply dependent reservoirs downstream and large residential and commercial zones,” said City spokesperson Gugu Sisilana.
Related article: uMhlanga, Durban North water woes continue as City briefs frustrated residents
The affected reservoirs are expected to take at least two days to return to normal levels.
“The municipality is pleased to note that inflows and pressure required are sustaining. This is thanks to the technical teams who have been working tirelessly to resolve the low pressure that resulted in the water supply interruption. This included the replacement of air valves and scouring of the line to release air that may have caused blockages in the system.
“During the inspection of the 27km pipeline, technical teams discovered that an air valve was tampered with and another valve was vandalised. These valves have since been repaired by the municipality, and a case of sabotage was opened at the Greenwood Park Police Station,” she said.
While water supply has improved, Sisilana urged residents to use water sparingly.
She added teams remain on the ground to tweak the system to ensure the best efficiency to balance all reservoirs.
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